Palace on Wheels vs Royal Scotsman: Old-World Elegance on Two Continents

If you’re confused between Palace on Wheels in India and the Royal Scotsman in Scotland, the quick pick is this:

Choose Palace on Wheels if you want culture, warm weather, and a fully immersive Rajasthan & Taj Mahal loop over 7 nights. 

Choose the Royal Scotsman if you want ultra-exclusive, small-group Highlands scenery and a cooler climate. Also, if you are willing to pay a higher per-night rate for country-house-style luxury and a Dior spa on rails.

Both are best used as the centre-piece of a 10–14 day holiday, and both work exceptionally well for US, UK and Australian travellers aged 55+ who value comfort, safety and detail-orientated planning. 

Indian Luxury Trains (ILT) acts as your specialist planner for India, securing Palace on Wheels cabins, advising on the right season, and building the rest of your India trip around your rail journey while helping you compare how this stacks up against doing the Royal Scotsman now or later.

At a Glance: Palace on Wheels vs Royal Scotsman 

Which should you choose first: Palace on Wheels or Royal Scotsman?

• Pick Palace on Wheels first if you’re planning a once-in-a-decade India trip and want a 7-night all-inclusive Rajasthan loop that gives you forts, palaces, wildlife and the Taj in one shot. You get more days on board for less money per night and an extremely rich cultural experience.
• Pick the Royal Scotsman first if you’re less comfortable with India’s intensity, prefer cooler temperatures, and are happy to pay more for an ultra-small, country-house-style train with a spa and open bar rolling through the Highlands.

Palace on Wheels normally delivers better value per day and deeper contrast to your everyday life. If you’re already a regular Scotland visitor or want something closer to home (for UK travellers) with shorter flights and no visa complexity, the Royal Scotsman can make more sense as the first pick.

Key Differences: Palace on Wheels & Royal Scotsman

Want an honest take on which suits you better given your health, budget and travel style? Talk to ILT’s luxury rail experts for a personal recommendation.

What exactly are the Palace on Wheels and the Royal Scotsman?

What is the Palace on Wheels and where does it run?

The Palace on Wheels is India’s original luxury heritage train, launched in 1982 as a joint venture between Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation and Indian Railways. It was inspired by royal carriages once used by Rajput princesses and other rulers of the Rajputana region.

Today it operates a 7-night/8-day loop from Delhi, typically running from September to April. The circuit covers – Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur and Agra before returning to Delhi.

What is the Royal Scotsman and what makes it special?

The Royal Scotsman, operated by Belmond, is a small, ultra-luxury “cruise train” offering multiple 2–7-night journeys through the Scottish Highlands. It typically carries around 36–40 guests in richly panelled mahogany carriages that feel like a country house hotel on rails.

How do their routes and scenery compare?

What does the Palace on Wheels itinerary look like day by day?

It’s a classic Rajasthan & Taj Mahal loop, designed so you unpack once and the train delivers you to a different highlight every day.

Typical structure:

• Day 1 – Delhi → Jaipur: check-in at Safdarjung, welcome ceremony, overnight run.
• Day 2 – Jaipur: Amber Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, shopping time.
• Day 3 – Sawai Madhopur and Chittorgarh: morning game drive in Ranthambore with  afternoon fort and sound-and-light show.
• Day 4 – Udaipur: City Palace, boat ride on Lake Pichola.
• Day 5 – Jaisalmer: Havelis, dunes, camel ride, cultural show.
• Day 6 – Jodhpur: Mehrangarh Fort, old city.
• Day 7 – Bharatpur & Agra: Keoladeo bird sanctuary, Taj Mahal & Agra Fort.
• Day 8 – Return to Delhi.

This route is heavily heritage and culture-driven, with a mix of palaces, forts, wildlife and one world icon (the Taj).

What routes does the Royal Scotsman cover in the Highlands?

Short answer: Royal Scotsman doesn’t stick to one loop; it offers several curated itineraries, ranging from 2-night tasters to 7-night grand tours, all starting and ending in Edinburgh.

Examples:

• Taste of the Highlands (2 nights): Edinburgh → Highlands → distilleries → scenic stops → back to Edinburgh.
• Western Scenic Wonders (4–5 nights): Lochs, viaducts, west coast views, castles.
• Grand Western Scenic Wonders (7 nights): deeper into Kyle of Lochalsh, the Ben Nevis area, and the Rothiemurchus estate with optional clay shooting, hiking and fishing.

When is the best time of year to travel on each train?

Palace on Wheels

The Palace on Wheels typically runs from September to April, with peak season from October to March.

• October–early December: Pleasant daytime temperatures in Rajasthan, cooler evenings, good visibility, and fewer domestic crowds than Christmas/New Year.
• Late December–January: Cold mornings/nights in Delhi and Rajasthan; clear skies, very popular period – fares often higher.
• February–March: Warming up but still comfortable; Holi and other festivals add colour but also more crowds.
• September & April (shoulder): Warmer, sometimes hot; better fares and availability, but can be uncomfortable if you dislike heat.

Royal Scotsman

The Royal Scotsman runs a shorter season, roughly April to October, with exact dates depending on itinerary.

• April–May: Spring, longer daylight emerging, fresh greens, some chill in the air.
• June–August: Warmest temperatures (by Scottish standards), lush landscapes, longest days but more midges in some areas.
• September–October: Autumn colours, shorter days, cooler evenings, often good for photography and whisky-focused trips.

How do cabins and onboard comfort compare for older travellers?

Maharajas’ Express – Modern Ultra-Luxury

Palace on Wheels – Heritage Charm

Palace on Wheels cabins, dining and services: what to expect

Heritage-styled, fully air-conditioned en-suite cabins with a lively, social Indian atmosphere and plentiful staff.

• Cabins: Deluxe and Super Deluxe / Suite cabins, inspired by Rajasthani princely states. All have attached bathrooms with hot/cold water, climate control, and large windows.
• Décor: Ornate, colourful, traditional; if you like subtle minimalism, Royal Scotsman will feel calmer; if you like drama, Palace on Wheels wins.
• Dining: Two restaurant cars serving Indian and international menus, plus a bar; meals are included.
• Service: Personal attendants per carriage, high staff-to-guest ratio, strong “royal welcome” and ceremony.

From a senior comfort perspective:

• Pros: En-suite privacy, you avoid hotel-hopping, staff help with luggage and daily logistics.
• Cons: Some narrow corridors, a few steps between cars; train movement can be noticeable on older tracks at night.

Royal Scotsman cabins, dining and services: what to expect

Royal Scotsman cabins feel like you’re staying in a boutique country house on rails.

• Cabins: Twin, double, single, and Grand Suites, all with en-suite shower, WC, wardrobe, and full climate control. Decor features tartan fabrics, polished wood, and Scottish artwork.
• Dining: Two restaurant cars, fine-dining menus with Scottish produce and an extensive whisky list; all meals and drinks included in most packages.
• Spa & lounge: Dior/Bamford spa carriage and an observation car, often with an outdoor viewing area.
• Service: Staff know almost every guest by name; 24-hour steward call button, with very personalised attention.

For older travellers:

• Pros: Very small group, extremely attentive staff, short walks on and off train, and cooler climate may feel easier than Indian heat.
• Cons: Very high cost; the dress code is a bit more formal (jackets, smart casual; optional kilts for some dinners).

Comfort factors for seniors: motion, noise, accessibility, dress code

• Motion & noise: Both trains move primarily at night or between excursions. The Royal Scotsman often runs on smoother European track; Palace on Wheels can feel a bit more rattly, especially in older sections.
• Accessibility:
  • Palace on Wheels: steps to board, narrow corridors, some uneven ground on excursions; not ideal for wheelchairs, though staff do help.
  • Royal Scotsman: still not wheelchair-perfect, but smaller guest numbers allow staff to give more one-to-one assistance.
• Dress code:
  • Palace on Wheels: smart casual is fine; you can dress up, but it’s not mandatory.
  • Royal Scotsman: some evenings suggest jackets or formal wear; kilts are optional, not required.

What are the off-train excursions like on each journey?

How active are Palace on Wheels excursions?

Expect a full sightseeing programme: forts, palaces, bazaars, wildlife drives and cultural performances.

• Regular walking on uneven stone and steps in places like Amber Fort, Chittorgarh and Jaisalmer Fort.
• A game drive in Ranthambore – usually in shared jeeps or canters.
• Evening cultural shows and, sometimes, late returns to the train.

What do Royal Scotsman excursions involve?

The Royal Scotsman focuses on country estates, castles and scenic stops rather than city sightseeing.

• Guided tours of historic castles and manor houses.
• Visits to whisky distilleries with tastings.
• Estate walks, clay pigeon shooting, fishing – usually optional with alternatives if you prefer to stay on board.

Walking surfaces are still uneven in places, but distances are generally shorter than a full day of Indian fort sightseeing.

How do prices and value compare?

Maharajas’ Express – Modern Ultra-Luxury

Palace on Wheels – Heritage Charm

How much does Palace on Wheels cost and what’s included?

Different operators quote different tariffs, but reputable agents indicate:

• Low/shoulder season (e.g. Sept, April): starting around $4,250 per person in Deluxe cabins for the 7-night journey.
• High season (Oct–Dec): often $6,400–$16,800 per person depending on cabin class and date.

Fares typically include:

• Accommodation on the train for 7 nights
• All meals on board
• Soft drinks, tea/coffee; sometimes limited alcohol, depending on operator
• Off-train excursions, monument entrances and local guides
• Some onboard entertainment and cultural programmes

You’ll pay extra for personal expenses, insurance, and pre/post-tour hotels and flights.

How much does the Royal Scotsman cost and what’s included?

Specialist agents citing 2025–26 prices show Royal Scotsman journeys starting from about $7,825 per person for shorter 2–3-night itineraries, rising sharply for longer trips and Grand Suites.

Fares usually include:

• Accommodation in your cabin or suite
• All meals on board
• Open bar, including wines, spirits and whiskies (premium brands may be extra depending on package)
• Off-train excursions, transfers and entry fees
• Some spa access / one treatment in Grand Suites

You’ll still need to budget for flights to/from Edinburgh, extra nights in cities, and comprehensive travel insurance.

Who is each train best suited for?

Ideal Palace on Wheels traveller profiles

Based on how ILT’s clients use the train and how the product is positioned:

• First-time India visitors who want to see Rajasthan and the Taj without constant hotel changes.
• Retired couples in their 60s–70s who like culture, history and guided touring.
• Value-conscious luxury seekers who want 7 nights of high-touch service at a lower per-night cost than Europe’s very top trains.
• Multi-generational families (when budgets allow) who want to keep everyone together and minimise unpacking.

Ideal Royal Scotsman traveller profiles

Drawing from operator positioning and specialist OTAs:

• UK and European seniors wanting a once-in-a-lifetime Highlands trip with no language barrier.
• US and Canadian couples who have already done cities like London/Paris and now want immersive scenery and whisky culture.
• Whisky enthusiasts and golfers (on themed departures).
• Travellers who prefer cooler climates, shorter flights, and smaller groups.

How do you get there: flights, visas and logistics?

Reaching Palace on Wheels in Delhi (from US/UK/Australia)

• Gateway: Delhi (DEL) – you board at Safdarjung Railway Station in Delhi
• Flights:
  • From the US: one-stop via European/ME hubs (London, Frankfurt, Doha, Dubai, etc.).
  • From the UK: direct flights to Delhi are common.
  • From Australia: one stop via Southeast Asia or the Middle East.
• Visa: Most Western travellers need an Indian e-Visa; the process is online but time-sensitive. ILT can advise, but you remain responsible for legal compliance.
• Buffer: Arrive at least one night before departure to absorb jet lag and any flight hiccups.

Reaching Royal Scotsman in Edinburgh

• Gateway: Edinburgh (EDI), sometimes via London; all journeys start and end at Edinburgh Waverley.
• Flights:
  • From US: direct options from some hubs or via London/Europe.
  • From UK: simple domestic rail or air.
  • From Australia: usual two-stop via the Middle East/Asia + London/Europe.
• Visa/entry: Check the latest UK ETA/visa rules. Rules are in flux; ILT can flag this, but final responsibility lies with you.
• Buffer: At least one pre-night in Edinburgh, ideally 2 if coming from long-haul.

Where should you stay before and after each journey?

Maharajas’ Express – Modern Ultra-Luxury

Palace on Wheels – Heritage Charm

Suggested pre/post stays for Palace on Wheels

• Pre-departure (Delhi): 1–2 nights at a comfortable 5★ or heritage-style hotel near central Delhi to rest, do a half-day city tour and adjust to India.
• Post-journey: Another 1–2 nights for shopping, extra Delhi sights, or a side trip to Varanasi or another Indian destination (arranged by ILT).

Suggested pre/post stays for Royal Scotsman

• Pre-departure (Edinburgh): 1–2 nights in a central hotel to explore the Old Town and New Town, plus a food or whisky tour.
• Post-journey: Add another night in Edinburgh or continue to London by rail for 2–3 nights before flying home.

Is it safe and sensible to do these journeys at the health level?

Health, safety and comfort on Palace on Wheels

• Medical: Basic medical assistance is normally available; serious issues are handled in cities along the route.
• Hygiene: Good onboard standards; off-train, you need to be more careful with water, street food and hand hygiene.
• Heat: October–March is chosen specifically to avoid peak Indian summer; you still need sun protection and hydration.

Health, safety and comfort on Royal Scotsman

• Medical: Very small group; staff can respond quickly; serious cases can be transferred to nearby towns.
• Weather: Cooler climate; you need layered clothing and waterproof outerwear.

Etiquette and cultural differences: India vs Scotland

• India: Modest clothing in temples, removing shoes at certain sites, a more pronounced tipping culture, and haggling in markets.
• Scotland: Western norms; tipping standard but modest; no special dress codes outside the train.

How does Indian Luxury Trains help you decide and book?

ILT is a specialist for Indian luxury trains and an official sales agent for Palace on Wheels and other Indian luxury trains.

• Get neutral, side-by-side insight into Palace on Wheels vs Royal Scotsman.
• Can request a custom quote for Palace on Wheels and discuss realistic costs.
• Can have ILT build an end-to-end India itinerary (flight advice, hotels, add-on tours, insurance pointers).